JesseEatzA deep, smoky, and heart-healthy jambalaya packed with lean protein and the 'holy trinity' of Cajun aromatics. This one-pot wonder delivers maximum flavor with performance-driven nutrition.
Season the diced chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Prep the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic.
Consistency is key—try to keep the vegetables roughly the same size for even cooking.
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the andouille sausage rounds until crispy, then remove and set aside.
The fat rendered from the sausage adds incredible depth to the base.
In the same pot, sear the chicken pieces until golden brown on all sides. They don't need to be fully cooked yet. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
Don't crowd the pan; sear in batches if necessary to get a good crust.
Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery (the holy trinity) to the pot. Sauté until softened and the onions are translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Scrape the bottom of the pot to release all those flavorful brown bits (fond).
Stir in the white rice, ensuring every grain is coated in the oil and aromatics. Cook for 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
Toasting the rice prevents it from becoming mushy later.
Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, remaining Cajun seasoning, and dried thyme. Return the chicken and sausage to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Resist the urge to peek! Keeping the steam trapped is vital for fluffy rice.
Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and stir in the sliced green onions and fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition data is estimated and may not be fully accurate. This is not medical advice — consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Prices shown reflect the estimated cost of the portion used in this recipe, not the full item price. Actual costs may vary by store and location.